August 6, 1939

More than 2,000 motorcycle enthusiasts gathered in New York to celebrate Motorcycle Day at the 1939 World’s Fair. Members of 30 motorcycle clubs from a dozen states converged upon the Fair Grounds in the early morning hours. Many were visiting New York for the first time, which was then the largest city in the world. The event was hosted by the Empire Motorcycle Club of NYC and corresponded with their tenth anniversary. Special shows for motorcyclists were held in the House of Magic, such as demonstrations of stroboscope light on a Harley-Davidson wheel. In the afternoon, Clubs and Auxiliaries assembled for a cyclists’ parade and competitions. Trophies were presented for Best Uniformed Club, Highest Group Mileage (9,030 miles), Best Uniformed Auxiliary, and the cyclist who rode the Longest Distance.

Emelia Schorer and Millie Hafke, of the Ace Club, Long Island, relax as they tour the Fair.

The Ace Club of Glendale, L. I.

Baltimore Ramblers parade past judges stand.

Here comes the Bronx Club.

Motorcycle display at Firestone Building.

The Greyhound Club, winner of the Club Contest.

A few of the steel steeds in the parking station.

The winners! George de Leon, left, Miami, FL, winner of the long distance trophy; Emma Miller, holding trophy won by Fritzie Roamers Auxiliary; Ernest McQuarters, of the Greyhound Club; Elsie Phillips, of the Ramblers, and Bill Walsh, of Mt. Sterling, KY.